so the question is.... is there a suitable everyday UK alternative ?

Talc - probably :-}

What sort of load are you pulling from the other end of the cable - have
you allowed for changes to the rating of the cable given the "tight"
nature of the conduit (unless its only a short run) ?

Do you intend to use the conduit and T&E in a "flexible" environment,
where the cable might need to move with an appliance etc ?

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